Walker wrote on her GoFundMe page that her goal is to be the first black woman to receive a Ph.D in Astrochemistry. She was offered a fellowship at Harvard for the summer. But her fellowship is in jeopardy because of the error.

“If I am not back in school, I will lose my fellowship for Harvard this summer,” Walker said. “I am not credit worthy now for loans this is why I am asking for help.”

As of 4:45 p.m., Walker has raised $4,720 of her $20K goal. There have been 120 donors in 18 hours.

Friends and strangers alike from around the internet left Walker messages of positivity on the page.

“As one woman in astronomy to another, go get ’em” wrote Nancy Adams-Wolk.

“The persistence and determination you have shown in dealing with this bureaucratic nightmare is exactly what you will need as you continue on your chosen academic path. I am pleased to be able to help in a small way. You rock!” another GoFundMe donor posted.

WLS-TV reports Chicago State has been very helpful with getting her paperwork in order. She is optimistic that she will be declared as “alive” before the spring semester.